More Than Cosmetic: Understanding the Causes of Spider Veins

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Summary

Spider veins are often dismissed as a cosmetic nuisance, but they can signal deeper circulation problems and affect your overall leg health. These tiny red, blue, or purple lines appear when small blood vessels near the surface of the skin become damaged or dilated. Common causes include hormonal changes, genetics, sun exposure, and long periods of standing. At Rejuvenation Dermatology in South Edmonton, we help patients understand why spider veins form, and offer proven treatment through sclerotherapy. This non-surgical procedure closes off affected veins, improving appearance and reducing discomfort. If spider veins are becoming more visible or bothersome, contact us to learn how sclerotherapy can help restore smoother, clearer skin. 

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Why Spider Veins Deserve More Than Just a Cosmetic Label

Spider veins may look minor, but their development often points to issues with blood flow, pressure, or vein strength. While they don’t always cause pain, spider veins can sometimes lead to burning, itching, or skin sensitivity, especially on the legs. Understanding their root causes can help you manage risk and seek appropriate treatment like sclerotherapy before they spread or worsen. 

What Really Causes Spider Veins?

Several internal and external factors can lead to spider veins:

  • Genetics – If your parents had them, you’re more likely to develop them
  • Hormones – Pregnancy, birth control, and menopause all affect vein walls
  • Prolonged standing or sitting – Causes blood to pool in lower limbs
  • Obesity – Adds pressure to small surface veins
  • Sun damage – Especially on facial skin, can weaken tiny vessels

Sclerotherapy treats the damaged veins directly, regardless of the cause, and helps prevent them from getting worse.

Spider Veins vs. Deeper Vein Issues

Spider veins are smaller and more superficial than varicose veins, but they may still indicate early-stage venous insufficiency. If you experience:

  • Itching or throbbing near clusters
  • Restlessness or fatigue in the legs
  • Spreading clusters or increased visibility

…your spider veins may be more than cosmetic. Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment that not only improves how your skin looks but also how your legs feel.

The Role of Sclerotherapy in Treating the Cause

While lifestyle changes like leg elevation, hydration, and compression can help reduce risk, they won’t reverse existing spider veins. Sclerotherapy is the gold-standard treatment. By injecting a solution into the vein, it collapses and fades over time. At Rejuvenation Dermatology, we assess your symptoms and recommend a tailored sclerotherapy plan to address both cosmetic concerns and any discomfort you're experiencing. 

Treat Spider Veins with Sclerotherapy in South Edmonton

Spider veins may start small, but they’re not always a minor issue. If they’re spreading, causing discomfort, or simply bothering you, it’s time to consider treatment. At Rejuvenation Dermatology in South Edmonton, we provide professional assessments and customized sclerotherapy to treat both the cause and the cosmetic effects. Contact us today to book your consultation and take the next step toward clearer, more comfortable skin. 

FAQs

No — they may fade slightly but usually persist or worsen without treatment. This is because spider veins and varicose veins are caused by underlying vein valve dysfunction, where valves in the veins become weak or damaged and allow blood to pool instead of flowing properly. This pressure causes the veins to bulge or become visible at the skin’s surface.

Most patients report only mild discomfort, like a small sting. 

They can help reduce risk but won’t eliminate existing veins. If you are already dealing with spider veins, contact Rejuvenation Dermatology to book an appointment and find out if sclerotherapy is right for you.  

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Take the first step toward achieving healthy, radiant, and flawless skin. Contact Rejuvenation Medical Aesthetics today to schedule your personalized consultation and explore the advanced treatments tailored to your unique needs.